Oh, the magic of holiday baking! There’s just something so special about the warmth of the oven and the sweet, spicy aroma of cinnamon wafting through the house. I can’t help but smile when I think of all the memories made around the kitchen during this time of year. One of my absolute favorite festive treats is the Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a centerpiece that brings everyone together! Imagine the delight on your family’s faces as they gather around this whimsical tree, ready to pull apart those gooey, cinnamon-swirled rolls. Trust me, this charming creation is a surefire way to spread joy and deliciousness at any holiday gathering. Plus, it’s so easy to make that even the little ones can help out. So, let’s dive into creating this festive delight that’s sure to be the star of your holiday table!
Ingredients for the Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful holiday centerpiece. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in bringing that warm, festive flavor to life!
- 2 cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls (make sure they’re the ones with icing included!)
- 1/2 cup of melted butter (this adds richness and helps everything stick together)
- 1/4 cup of sugar (for that sweet touch)
- 1 tablespoon of cinnamon (the star spice that makes everything cozy)
- 1/2 cup of powdered sugar (for the icing that drizzles beautifully on top)
- 1 tablespoon of milk (to achieve a smooth icing consistency)
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract (just a splash for extra flavor)
Gather these ingredients, and you’re all set to bring some festive cheer into your kitchen. Trust me, the combination of these simple items will create a stunning and delicious treat that everyone will love!
How to Prepare the Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree
Let’s get this festive show on the road! Preparing the Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree is super simple, and I promise, the results will be nothing short of magical. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a stunning centerpiece in no time!
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for that perfect golden finish! While the oven warms up, grab your cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls. Carefully open them—watch out for that pop!—and separate them. You want to keep them all intact for the next steps.
Arrange the Cinnamon Rolls
Now comes the fun part! On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (or a non-stick sheet if you prefer), start arranging the cinnamon rolls into the shape of a tree. I like to use one roll for the trunk and then layer the rest in a triangular shape for the branches. Don’t worry about perfection; a little chaos adds to the charm!
Add Butter and Cinnamon Sugar
Next, take your melted butter and brush it generously over each roll. This is where the magic begins! In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon. Then, sprinkle that delightful mixture over the rolls, making sure each one gets a nice coating. The aroma is already making my mouth water!
Bake and Prepare Icing
Pop your cinnamon roll tree into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and puffed up. You’ll know they’re done when your kitchen smells like a cozy bakery! While they’re baking, let’s whip up that icing! In a bowl, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. You want it to be drizzly but not too runny. Once your rolls are out of the oven and cooled slightly, drizzle that luscious icing over the top, and get ready to impress!
Tips for Success with Your Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree
To ensure your Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree turns out perfectly, here are a few handy tips! First, make sure your cinnamon rolls are fresh; they’ll rise and bake better! If you want to add a little extra flair, consider using festive sprinkles or edible glitter on top of the icing for a holiday sparkle. Also, serve it warm—there’s nothing quite like the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of a fresh cinnamon roll! If you have leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two, but they’re best enjoyed fresh. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions
Your Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree is not just a treat; it’s a festive centerpiece that deserves a fabulous presentation! I love to serve it alongside a warm mug of hot cocoa or freshly brewed coffee for that cozy vibe. You could also add a fruit platter with seasonal fruits like oranges and pomegranates for a burst of freshness. And don’t forget to have some extra icing or cream cheese frosting on the side for those who want a little more indulgence. Place the tree on a beautiful platter, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for a snowy effect, and watch it become the star of your holiday gathering!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional content for one roll from the Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree. Remember, nutrition may vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use, so consider this an estimate. Enjoy these delicious treats in moderation as part of a balanced diet!
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
FAQ: Common Questions About Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! If you’re feeling adventurous, you can totally substitute homemade cinnamon rolls for the refrigerated ones. Just make sure they’re a bit on the smaller side so they fit nicely in your tree shape. The homemade version will give you that extra love and freshness that store-bought sometimes lacks. Plus, you can customize the filling to your liking!
How do I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 1-2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can pop them in the fridge, but they’re best enjoyed fresh! Just warm them up slightly in the microwave before serving to bring back that gooey goodness.
Can I customize the toppings?
Oh, definitely! The sky’s the limit when it comes to toppings! You can sprinkle festive decorations like colored sprinkles or edible glitter on top of the icing for a holiday sparkle. Or, try adding crushed candy canes, chopped nuts, or even some mini marshmallows for a fun twist. Get creative and make it your own!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy prep—perfect for last-minute holiday gatherings!
- Festive and fun presentation that adds cheer to any table.
- Deliciously sweet and gooey cinnamon rolls that everyone loves.
- Family-friendly—kids can help arrange and decorate the tree!
- Customizable toppings to suit your taste and holiday spirit.
- It fills your home with that warm, inviting scent of cinnamon.
Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree: 5 Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive cinnamon roll tree perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls
- 1/2 cup of melted butter
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of cinnamon
- 1/2 cup of powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon of milk
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Open the cinnamon rolls and separate them.
- Arrange the cinnamon rolls in a tree shape on a baking sheet.
- Brush melted butter over the rolls.
- Mix sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle over the rolls.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for icing.
- Drizzle icing over the baked cinnamon roll tree.
Notes
- Use a non-stick baking sheet or line with parchment paper.
- Customize with sprinkles or edible decorations.
- Serve warm for the best experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Cinnamon Roll Christmas Tree, Holiday Dessert, Festive Treat